MKU marks the send-off ceremony of the 5th Cohort of Nursing Apprentices

Prof. JAGANYI MKU Vice-Chancellor Speech

I am delighted to join you today as we mark the Send-Off Ceremony of the 5^th  Cohort of Nursing Apprentices.

Mount Kenya University has been running this programme since 2023. It represents one of the most impactful international initiatives in the University, providing Kenyan youth with opportunities to gain global skills, professional experience, and international exposure in the healthcare sector.

The success of this programme has been made possible through strong partnerships with key institutions in Germany. I wish to sincerely acknowledge the following;

1. Hochschule Koblenz University of Applied Sciences, Germany, our key academic partner whose collaboration has played a vital role in the development and implementation of this apprenticeship programme.
2. AG-Career Hub in Germany, whose mentorship and professional guidance ensure that our students transition smoothly into the German healthcare system.
3. Our healthcare partners who provide apprenticeship placements and practical training opportunities in Bad Mergentheim, Göttingen, Pirmasens, and Alzey. Their collaboration ensures that our students receive hands-on professional experience in well-established healthcare institutions.

As we celebrate our 5^th cohort, I am happy to report that the University has made considerable strides of becoming an approved German examination centre for TELC (The European Language Certificates). Once approved, the University will be able to offer internationally recognized TELC examinations locally, further strengthening our German language training programmes and expanding opportunities for students seeking education and employment in Germany.

I am pleased to report that in addition to the Nursing Apprenticeship program in Germany, the University has also established other programmes that support students mobility to international job market. An example is the MKU Maritime Academy in Malindi that has to date trained a total of 1,065 students in STCW-related programs, out of which 400 trainees have successfully secured placements in different ships through the following cruise lines; Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, MSC cruises, Princess Cruises amongst others.

For the students who have done German language, AIDA Cruises is a key employer within the European market and employs candidates who are proficient in German language.

Therefore, having German language skills is of significant advantage to candidates seeking maritime jobs with AIDA and other similar cruise operators.

To our twenty-seven (27) apprentices in Cohort 5, I congratulate you on your dedication and hard work. As you begin this journey, carry the University’s flag with pride and be ambassadors of the University and the republic of Kenya. Uphold the values of professionalism, integrity, and excellence wherever you go.

To our partners, we extend our sincere gratitude for your continued collaboration in making this initiative a success and look forward to many more collaborative activities.

Thank you.